What kind of wine is Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l)?
The Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l) is a sweet fortified wine, born from Sicily's extraordinary winemaking tradition. Produced with Zibibbo grapes (also known as Muscat of Alexandria), it is a wine with an aromatic and enveloping character, with a higher alcohol content than classic white wines, typically around 15–16% vol. The Florio winery, among the most renowned in the production of Sicilian fortified wines, offers a label capable of enclosing the light, warmth, and sweetness of the island in every sip.
Vintage Details
The 2017 vintage was characterized by a warm and breezy summer, which favored a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The grapes, left to overripen on the vine, concentrated sugars and natural aromas, making the wine particularly rich and balanced. The style of this harvest enhances the Mediterranean identity of Zibibbo, with a mature yet never cloying sweetness.
Winemaking and Aging
The production of Morsi di Luce follows a traditional winemaking process typical of fortified wines. After harvesting, the must ferments slowly until it reaches a perfect balance between sweetness and alcohol. Fermentation is interrupted by the addition of wine alcohol, a technique known as fortification, which increases its alcohol content and preserves its natural sugars. Aging continues for at least ten months in small oak barrels, where the wine acquires aromatic complexity and notes of honey and spices. This is followed by an additional period of rest in the bottle, which refines its softness and taste balance.
Tasting Notes
The Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l) is a meditation wine and a dessert wine that offers a complete sensory experience, thanks to its intensity and the richness of aromas typical of Zibibbo.
Color
Visually, it presents an intense golden yellow, crossed by bright amber reflections, a sign of its maturity and wood aging.
Nose
The bouquet is ample and captivating: aromas of dried apricot, candied citrus, figs, and honey emerge, with elegant nuances of vanilla and tropical fruit. The aromatic complexity grows with oxygenation, revealing underlying notes of orange blossom and caramel.
Taste
On the palate, it is soft and velvety, with a satisfying sweetness, balanced by a lively freshness that makes it harmonious and never heavy. The finish is long and persistent, with hints of ripe fruit and almond. A full-bodied wine, ideal for those who love elegant sweetness.
What dishes to pair with Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l)
Perfect as a dessert or meditation wine, Morsi di Luce excels with desserts made from dried fruit or cream. It can also accompany blue or aged cheeses, in a fascinating sweet and savory contrast.
- Sicilian desserts like cannoli and cassata
- Tarts with citrus jams
- Strong blue cheeses
- Foie gras and dry pastries
Storage and aging: how to store Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l) wine
Thanks to its high alcohol content and the presence of natural sugars, the fortified wine Morsi di Luce can be stored longer than traditional white wines. It is advisable to keep it in a cool place, away from direct light and at a constant temperature of around 14–16°C. Once opened, it maintains its qualities for several weeks if stored in the refrigerator and tightly closed with the original cork.
Over time, it can evolve further, developing more honeyed and spicy notes, perfect for those who love to discover the nuances of fortified wine throughout its aromatic evolution.
Florio
The History of Florio Winery Florio is a name that evokes a rich winemaking tradition, born in the heart of Sicily. Founded in 1833 by Vincenzo Florio, the company quickly became synonymous with excellence and innovation. For almost two centuries, Florio has been able to interpret the Sicilian te...
How to open and best serve Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l)
1. Bottle Positioning
Before opening Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l), ensure the bottle has been stored correctly in a horizontal position, away from heat sources and direct light. A few hours before serving, position it upright to allow natural sediments of the aged wine to settle at the bottom.
2. Ideal Serving Temperature
The perfect temperature to enjoy this sweet Zibibbo from Sicily is between 12°C and 14°C. If the wine is too cold, the aromas will be muted; if it's too warm, the alcohol will overpower the sweet and fruity aromas. A brief stint in an ice bucket with water can help achieve the ideal temperature.
3. Opening the Bottle
Use a lever corkscrew to gently remove the capsule and cork, avoiding jerks that could disturb the sediments. It is advisable to clean the bottle neck with a clean, dry cloth to maintain the full olfactory experience of Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l).
4. Inspection and First Taste
Once opened, pour a small amount of wine into a glass to check its color and clarity. Observe the golden hue typical of aged Zibibbo and bring your nose closer to perceive the aromatic notes. A first taste will allow you to verify that the wine has been preserved in optimal condition.
5. Decanting and Aeration
To best enhance the complex and honeyed aromas of the wine, decanting is a crucial step. Slowly pour the contents into a decanter, leaving any residues at the bottom. Let the wine breathe for about 15-20 minutes before serving: aeration will help release the notes of dried fruit, apricot, and citrus typical of this Sicilian wine.
6. Serving
Serve Terre Siciliane Zibibbo IGP 'Morsi di Luce' 2017 - Florio (0.5l) in small dessert or aromatic wine glasses, perfect for concentrating intense aromas. Pour slowly so as not to disturb the sediments. This wine pairs beautifully with blue cheeses, dry pastries, or fruit-based desserts.
7. Storage After Opening
If not consumed entirely, reseal the bottle with an airtight stopper and store it in the refrigerator. It can maintain its characteristics for 3-4 days. For optimal storage, avoid temperature fluctuations and always store it upright.